Summer #5

Came to the start with the same routine at a right angle. Not sure what made the difference but Otis’ start was not strong. He did not start to track with nose down. He passed through the tall grass well but when approaching the first turn at the pole he was visually distracted (my assumption of course) by the pole barn in the distance. Used my counting, tried to interrupt/redirect but was obviously not effective. This was a pattern throughout this track ie whining at the turns my trying to interrupt/redirect. Each time when he would finally get back to work he indicated he knew where the turn or track was. He was distracted visually but also by dogs barking in the distance in 2 different places. Would most appreciate your suggestions…with many thanks in advance.

(He does not eat food drops doesn’t matter how high value. Articles motivating)


https://youtu.be/DryfVUJGP2g


https://youtu.be/qX3rP27R6n0


https://youtube.com/shorts/-rY4AD14jbM


https://youtube.com/shorts/KSk1DBPaa1M






Comments

  1. Jack's JourneyJune 18, 2025 at 3:00 PM

    When he stops to stare off, I would be careful with your choice of commands. Go Find It from a standstill ain't happening. In a blind track or test, I believe you would be backing up. So perhaps take three steps back, calling him to you while patting your leg. Water, re-scent. Establishing a pattern is desirable. If you say leave it, what is your goal? If you say uh huh, what is your goal? Watch that you are not guiding him in the known direction. If that was your turn rotation, I would try stairsteps next time - something with some rhythm.

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  2. JudiJune 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM

    100% agree with MaryAnn. In addition…..what was your goal for the day? Starts? Change in cover? I never (&this is me, MAM may have a different idea) ask for 90 degree or acute angles at the start. BUT, if I did….I’d train them as a separate piece, ending the track after the dog solved that problem.

    The staring and whining is likely conflict—he’s torn between the distraction and the track. Talking at him only increases the conflict—and we want to decrease it. Remember, distractions are nothing more than undesired reinforcers!

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